Outcome Of Thrombolysis Research Articles

The role of neutrophils in tPA thrombolysis after stroke: a malicious troublemaker

Acute ischemic stroke represents a critical, life-threatening condition affecting the central nervous system. Intravenous thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) remains a cornerstone for achieving vascular recanalization in such patients; however, its therapeutic utility is limited, with only approximately 10% of patients benefiting due to the narrow therapeutic window and significant risk of hemorrhagic transformation. Enhancing the efficacy of tPA thrombolysis is therefore imperative. Neutrophils have been identified as key modulators of thrombolytic outcomes, interacting with tPA post-stroke to influence treatment effectiveness. The binding of tPA to low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1) on neutrophil surfaces induces degranulation and formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Conversely, neutrophils impede the thrombolytic action of tPA by obstructing its interaction with fibrin and activating platelets. These findings suggest that targeting neutrophils may hold promise for improving thrombolysis outcomes. This review explores the role of neutrophils in tPA-mediated thrombolysis following acute ischemic stroke, examines neutrophil-associated biomarkers, and outlines potential strategies for enhancing tPA efficacy.

Before, during, and after: An Argument for Safety and Improved Outcome of Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke with Direct Oral Anticoagulant Treatment.

Direct oral anticoagulants are the primary stroke prevention option in patients with atrial fibrillation. Anticoagulant use before stroke, however, might inhibit clinician comfort with thrombolysis if a stroke does occur. Resuming anticoagulants after ischemic stroke is also problematic for fear of hemorrhage. We describe extensive literature showing that thrombolysis is safe after stroke with direct anticoagulant use. Early reinstitution of direct anticoagulant treatment is associated with lower risk of embolic recurrence and lower hemorrhage risk. The use of direct anticoagulants before, during, and after thrombolysis appears to be safe and is likely to promote improved outcomes after ischemic stroke. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:871-886.

Characteristics, temporal trends and outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis in Chinese patients aged>80 years who had a stroke.

To date, no large cohort study has investigated the effects of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in Chinese patients aged over 80 years who had a stroke. This study aimed to assess the trends in the use of alteplase, the clinical characteristics and the outcomes of Chinese patients aged above 80 years who had an acute ischaemic stroke. Data for this analysis were obtained from the China Stroke Center Alliance programme, a nationwide, multicentre, prospective registry encompassing 1751 hospitals across 31 provinces, covering the period from 1 January 2018 to 14 December 2022. The primary outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) Score of 0-2 at discharge. Secondary outcomes included an mRS Score of 0-1 and independent ambulation on discharge. Safety outcomes assessed were in-hospital mortality and symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH). Out of 30 902 patients over 80 years old who qualified for thrombolysis, 8673 (median age (IQR), 84 (82-87) years) received alteplase treatment. Patients administered alteplase demonstrated improved short-term functional outcomes, such as an mRS Score of 0-2 (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.12, 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.18, p<0.001), an mRS Score of 0-1 (aOR 1.14, 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.19, p<0.001) and independent ambulation at discharge (aOR 1.14, 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.20, p<0.001). Moreover, no significant increase was observed in the risk of in-hospital mortality (aOR 1.12, 95% CI, 0.93 to 1.35; p=0.23). However, the risk of sICH was significantly higher among patients treated with alteplase (aOR 3.22, 95% CI, 2.77 to 3.75; p<0.001). IVT with alteplase in elderly patients who had a stroke resulted in improved short-term functional outcomes without elevating the risk of in-hospital mortality. Nonetheless, this population remains at a higher risk of sICH.

Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis for (Not Immediately) Threatened Acute Lower Limb Ischemia: Clinical Outcome and Efficacy.

The objective of this study was to examine the short- and midterm outcomes of catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) for acute lower limb ischemia (ALI), classes Rutherford 1 and 2, with specific attention to functional outcome. This retrospective study included patients with ALI treated with CDT from 2 vascular centers between May 2018 and April 2021. Cases were analyzed in groups according to the Rutherford (1 and 2) classification. The primary endpoint was functional outcome during follow-up, assessed by Rutherford's chronic limb ischemia classification. Functional outcomes over time were analyzed by generalized estimating equations. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate reintervention, amputation, survival, and reintervention-free survival rates. Two hundred cases were included (Rutherford 1, n = 51; Rutherford 2, n = 149). Total median treatment duration was 27 hours in the Rutherford 1 group and 39 hours in the Rutherford 2 group (P= 0.120). Initial clinical success was high (Rutherford 1, 82% vs Rutherford 2, 89%; P= 0.253). Complications were comparable between the 2 groups: major bleeding 8% vs 10% (P= 0.634), major amputation 4% vs 7% (P= 0.603), and mortality 6% vs 6% (P= 0.967). Median follow-up was 32 months (0-63 months). During follow-up, there was a high number of reinterventions (43%) and amputations (20%) in patients with Rutherford 1 limb ischemia, which was comparable to patients with Rutherford 2 limb ischemia. Fifty-six percent of the patients with Rutherford 1 limb ischemia reaching 2 years of follow-up were asymptomatic, 20% had mild and 16% had moderate to severe claudication. Initial clinical success following CDT and not immediately threatened ischemia at presentation are associated with improved functional outcomes during follow-up (P < 0.001 and P= 0.009, respectively). In our cohort, CDT was effective in reestablishing arterial flow for not immediately threatened ALI. Patients with Rutherford 1 limb ischemia who receive CDT had a more favorable functional outcome than patients with more severe limb ischemia (Rutherford 2). However, reinterventions were required frequently, and there was a substantial risk of complications. Acute lower limb ischemia (ALI) does not immediately jeopardize limb survival in patients with Rutherford 1 limb ischemia but can induce disabling claudication. In such patients, catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) is often performed to improve functional outcome. However, previous reports warned about the complications of CDT, and so far, mid- and long-term functional outcomes have not been reported. This study, in which a large cohort of patients with ALI was included, demonstrates a high technical success of CDT for not immediately threatened ALI with more favorable functional outcomes when compared with those with threatened limbs. Nevertheless, major complications pose a serious risk, and the need for reinterventions in the long term is high.

Outcome of intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke patients with small vessel disease

IntroductionLacunar stroke (LS) subtype accounts for a quarter of ischemic strokes. Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) is known to improve overall stroke outcomes. Very few studies have focused on the outcome of IVT in lacunar strokes. Aim: To detect the outcome of IVT in LS patients compared to non-thrombolysed LS patients. MethodsFifty patients presenting with LS received the standard protocol of IVT (Group I). They were compared to fifty matched LS patients who presented beyond the time window and were selected as the control group (Group II). Clinical outcome was measured using NIHSS within 24 h, NIHSS at discharge, and MRS after 3 months. Risk factors that could have affected clinical outcomes were compared in the thrombolysis group. ResultsThe short-term clinical outcome of Group I showed statistically significant improvement of NIHSS after 24 hrs compared to Group II (mean NIHSS = 5.52±3.89 and 7.44±1.82 respectively), as well as on discharge (mean NIHSS = 3.88±3.50 and 5.78±2.97) respectively. For long-term outcomes, 94 % of GroupⅠ reached MRS 0, 1, and 2 (n = 47/50) versus 74 % (n = 36/50) in Group II. Longer door-to-needle time, severe WMCs (Fazekas score), and pneumonia were shown to be significant predictor factors for the worst outcome. ConclusionIVT has improved short- and long-term outcomes in LS patients. Longer door-to-needle time, severe WMCs, and pneumonia were shown to be significant predictor factors for the worst outcome.

Neutrophil migration participates in the side effect of recombinant human tissue plasminogen activator.

Ischemic stroke remains a challenge in medical research because of the limited treatment options. Recombinant human tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) is the primary treatment for recanalization. However, nearly 50% of the patients experience complications that result in ineffective reperfusion. The precise factors contributing to ineffective reperfusion remain unclear; however, recent studies have suggested that immune cells, notably neutrophils, may influence the outcome of rtPA thrombolysis via mechanisms such as the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. This study aimed to explore the nonthrombolytic effects of rtPA on neutrophils and highlight their contribution to ineffective reperfusion. We evaluated the effects of rtPA treatment on middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats. We also assessed neutrophil infiltration and activation after rtPA treatment invitro and invivo in a small cohort of patients with massive cerebral ischemia (MCI). rtPA increased neutrophil infiltration into the brain microvessels and worsened blood-brain barrier damage during ischemia. It also increased the neutrophil counts of the patients with MCI. Neutrophils play a crucial role in promoting ischemic injury and blood-brain barrier disruption, making them potential therapeutic targets.

Meta-analysis of clinical and safety profiles after reperfusion therapy in acute posterior circulation strokes: insights and implications.

Posterior circulation stroke (PCS) accounts for approximately 20% of all acute ischemic strokes. The optimal reperfusion therapy for PCS management remains uncertain. To evaluate the prevalence and outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), endovascular thrombectomy (EVT), and bridging therapy in PCS patients. We conducted a meta-analysis of 19 studies examining reperfusion therapy outcomes in PCS patients, including 9765 individuals. We pooled prevalence data and assessed associations between reperfusion therapies and clinical, safety, and recanalization outcomes using random-effects models. The pooled prevalence of reperfusion therapies post-acute PCS was 39% for IVT, 54% for EVT, and 48% for bridging therapy. EVT was associated with significantly higher odds of favorable functional outcomes (modified Rankin Score [mRS] 0-3) at 90 days compared to standard medical therapy (odds ratio [OR] = 5.68; 95% confidence interval [CI]=2.07-15.59; P = 0.001). Conversely, bridging therapy was linked to reduced odds of favorable functional outcomes at 90 days compared to EVT (OR = 0.35; 95% CI=0.26-0.47; P < 0.001). Bridging therapy was also significantly associated with lower odds of good functional outcomes (mRS 0-2) (OR = 0.25; 95% CI=0.11-0.54; P < 0.001), reduced risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (OR = 0.26; 95% CI=0.07-0.68; P = 0.009), lower mortality (OR = 0.13; 95% CI=0.04-0.44; P = 0.001), and less successful recanalization (OR = 0.35; 95% CI=0.13-0.94; P = 0.038) relative to EVT. Our meta-analysis underscores the favorable outcomes associated with EVT in PCS cases. With notable reperfusion rates, understanding factors influencing PCS outcomes can inform patient selection and prognostic considerations.

Comparing Outcomes of Thrombectomy Versus Intravenous Thrombolysis Based on Middle Cerebral Artery M2 Occlusion Features.

Current evidence provides limited support for the superiority of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in patients with M2 segment middle cerebral artery occlusion. We aim to investigate whether imaging features of M2 segment occlusion impact the effectiveness of EVT. We conducted a retrospective cohort study from January 2017 to January 2022, drawing data from the CASE II registry (Computer-Based Online Database of Acute Stroke Patients for Stroke Management Quality Evaluation), which specifically documented patients with acute ischemic stroke presenting with M2 segment occlusion undergoing reperfusion therapy. Patients were stratified into the intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) group (IVT alone) and EVT group (IVT plus EVT or EVT alone). The primary outcome was a modified Rankin Scale score 0 to 2 at 90 days. Secondary outcomes included additional thresholds and distribution of modified Rankin Scale scores, 24-hour recanalization, early neurological deterioration, and relevant complications during hospitalization. Safety outcomes encompassed intracranial hemorrhagic events at 24 hours and mortality at 90 days. Binary logistic regression analyses with propensity score matching were used. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the anatomic site of occlusion, including right versus left, proximal versus distal, dominant/co-dominant versus nondominant, single versus double/triple branch(es), and anterior versus central/posterior branch. Among 734 patients (43.3% were females; median age, 73 years) with M2 segment occlusion, 342 (46.6%) were in the EVT group. Propensity score matching analysis revealed no statistical difference in the primary outcome (odds ratio, 0.860 [95% CI, 0.611-1.209]; P=0.385) between the EVT group and IVT group. However, EVT was associated with a higher incidence of subarachnoid hemorrhage (odds ratio, 6.655 [95% CI, 1.487-29.788]; P=0.004) and pneumonia (odds ratio, 2.015 [95% CI, 1.364-2.977]; P<0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated that patients in the IVT group achieved better outcomes when presenting with right, distal, or nondominant branch occlusion (Pall interaction<0.05). Our study showed similar efficiency of EVT versus IVT alone in acute M2 segment middle cerebral artery occlusion. This suggested that only specific patient subpopulations might have a potentially higher benefit of EVT over IVT alone. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04487340.

Safety and Outcomes of Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke in Patients with History of Intracranial Hemorrhage within the Florida Stroke Registry (S10.001)

Safety and Outcomes of Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke in Patients with History of Intracranial Hemorrhage within the Florida Stroke Registry (S10.001)

N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide as a predictive marker of the outcomes of fibrinolytic therapy in acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Background: Risk assessment is vital in delivering appropriate treatment and enhancing patient outcomes during acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This study sought to ascertain the significance of NT-proBNP in predicting the outcome of thrombolysis in acute STEMI. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, we enrolled individuals with acute STEMI who underwent fibrinolytic therapy. Plasma N-terminal-proBNP (NT-proBNP) levels were assessed upon admission. Patients were categorized as thrombolysis success or failure groups based on electrocardiogram (ECG) criteria. The outcomes were measured in terms of in-hospital mortality and adverse cardiovascular events. Results: Thrombolysis achieved success in 59.13% of acute STEMI cases. Patients experiencing failed thrombolysis had a significantly longer mean time to reperfusion than those with successful thrombolysis (4.74 ± 2.42 vs. 5.97 ± 2.35 h, P = 0.0078). The median baseline NT-proBNP concentration was 983 pg/mL (interquartile range 777–2987 pg/mL). The plasma NT-proBNP levels on admission were notably higher in the thrombolysis failure group (P &lt; 0.001). NT-proBNP, time to reperfusion, heart rate, blood urea, and serum uric acid exhibited negative correlations with thrombolysis outcomes. The most prevalent adverse event was cardiac failure. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated a robust association between NT-proBNP and in-hospital mortality. High NT-proBNP (&gt;983 pg/mL) and prolonged time to reperfusion (&gt;6 h) emerged as independent predictors of thrombolysis failure on multivariate logistic regression analysis (P = 0.017 and 0.035, respectively). Conclusion: Elevated plasma NT-proBNP upon admission during acute STEMI serves as a robust predictor for both fibrinolytic therapy failure and in-hospital mortality.

Baseline Uric Acid Levels and Intravenous Thrombolysis Outcomes in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Prospective Cohort Study.

The study aimed to investigate the relationship between uric acid (UA) levels and functional outcomes at 3 months in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) who underwent intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). This prospective cohort study included 1001 consecutive patients with AIS who underwent IVT. The correlation between UA levels and post-IVT AIS outcomes was examined. Any nonlinear relationship was assessed using a restricted cubic spline function. The nonlinear P value for the association of UA levels with favorable (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤2) and excellent (mRS score ≤1) outcomes at 3 months post-IVT were <0.001 and 0.001, respectively. However, for patients with and without hyperuricemia, no evident nonlinear relationship was observed between UA levels and favorable 3-month post-IVT outcomes, with nonlinear P values of 0.299 and 0.207, respectively. The corresponding interaction analysis yielded a P value of 0.001, indicating significant heterogeneity. Similar results were obtained for excellent outcomes at 3 months post-IVT. In the hyperuricemia group, increased UA levels by 50 μmol/L reduced the odds of a favorable 3-month post-AIS outcome (odds ratio [OR], 0.75 [95% CI, 0.57-0.97]). Conversely, in the nonhyperuricemia group, a similar UA increase was linked to higher favorable outcome odds (OR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.15-1.50]). An inverted U-shaped nonlinear relationship was observed between UA levels and favorable and excellent outcomes at 3 months in patients with AIS who underwent IVT. Higher UA levels predict favorable outcomes in patients without hyperuricemia but unfavorable outcomes in those with hyperuricemia.

Sex differences in functional outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis among patients with lacunar stroke.

This study aimed to assess if there are sex differences in the functional outcome of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) among patients with lacunar stroke (LS). Consecutive patients admitted from 1 January 2014 to 31 January 2020 to hospitals participating in the Swiss Stroke Registry presenting with LS and treated with IVT were included. The study population was then divided into two groups based on patient sex, and a multivariable ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed to uncover sex differences in the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days after stroke. A total of 413 patients with LS were treated with IVT: 177 (42.9%) women and 236 (57.1%) men. Women were older than men (median age 74 years, 25th-75th percentiles 67-84 years versus 70 years, 25th-75th percentiles 60-80 years, value of p 0.001) and, after adjustment for meaningful variables, showed more frequently increased odds of a higher mRS score at 90 days after stroke (adjusted odds ratio 1.49, 95% confidence interval 1.01-2.19, value of p 0.044). This study showed that female sex increased the odds of a worse functional response to IVT in patients with LS. Future studies should further elucidate the mechanisms underlying such sex differences.

Trends in Stroke Thrombolysis Care Metrics and Outcomes by Race and Ethnicity, 2003-2021

Understanding is needed of racial and ethnic-specific trends in care quality and outcomes associated with the US nationwide quality initiative Target: Stroke (TS) in targeting thrombolysis treatment for acute ischemic stroke. To examine whether the TS quality initiative was associated with improvement in thrombolysis metrics and outcomes across racial and ethnic groups. This retrospective cohort study included patients who presented within 4.5 hours of ischemic stroke onset at hospitals participating in the Get With The Guidelines-Stroke initiative from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2021. The data analysis was performed between December 15, 2022, and November 27, 2023. TS phases I (2010-2013), II (2014-2018), and III (2019-2021). The primary outcomes were thrombolysis rates and time metrics. Patient function and mortality were secondary outcomes. Analyses included 1 189 234 patients, of whom 1 053 539 arrived to the hospital within 4.5 hours. The cohort included 50.4% female and 49.6% male patients and 2.8% Asian [median (IQR) age, 72 (61-82) years], 15.2% Black [median (IQR) age, 64 (54-75) years], 7.3% Hispanic [median (IQR) age, 68 (56-79) years], and 74.1% White [median (IQR) age, 75 (63-84) years] patients). Unadjusted thrombolysis rates increased in both the pre-TS (2003-2009) and TS periods in all racial and ethnic groups from 10% to 15% in 2003 to 43% to 46% in 2021, but disparities were observed in adjusted analyses and persisted in TS phase III, with Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients having significantly lower odds of receiving thrombolysis than White patients (adjusted odds ratio, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.81-0.90], 0.76 [95% CI, 0.74-0.78], and 0.86 [95% CI, 0.83-0.89], respectively). Door-to-needle (DTN) times improved in all racial and ethnic groups during TS, with DTN times of 60 minutes or less increasing from 26% to 28% in 2009 to 66% to 72% in 2021. However, in adjusted analyses, racial and ethnic disparities emerged. During TS phase III, compared with White patients, Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients had significantly lower odds of receiving thrombolysis with a DTN time of 60 minutes or less compared with White patients (risk-adjusted odds ratios, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.84-0.98], 0.78 [95% CI, 0.75-0.81], and 0.87 [95% CI, 0.83-0.92], respectively). During TS, clinical outcomes improved for all racial and ethnic groups from pre-TS, with TS phase III showing higher odds of ambulation at discharge among Asian, Black, Hispanic, and White patients. Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients were less likely to present within 4.5 hours. In this cohort study of patients with ischemic stroke, the TS quality initiative was associated with improvement in thrombolysis frequency, timeliness, and outcomes for all racial and ethnic groups. However, disparities persisted, indicating a need for further interventions.

Abstract TMP92: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment in Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Reperfusion Treatment Outcomes

Background: Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) and intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) outcomes are unclear in patients with pre-stroke dementia or cognitive impairment. Although these individuals make up ~12% of acute stroke patients, they are often excluded from both stroke trials and routine care. This systematic review and meta-analysis explored reperfusion therapy outcomes in this population. Methods: Using the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines, this systematic review investigated studies on acute ischemic stroke patients with dementia or cognitive impairment treated with either IVT or EVT. Primary outcome was defined as favorable 90-day outcome (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0-2). Secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality, radiographic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and symptomatic ICH (SICH). Results: 9 articles were included from 825 screened. 5 observational studies of IVT use in patients with (n=1078) and without dementia (n=2805) were selected for a meta-analysis. There were no significant differences in favourable 90-day mRS (adjusted OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.24 to 1.59), 90-day mortality (unadjusted OR of 1.19, 95% CI 0.86 to 1.64), ICH (unadjusted OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.79 to 2.19) and SICH (unadjusted OR of 0.94, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.25). EVT in dementia patients in one study found only increased odds of ICH (adjusted OR 1.57 95%CI 1.03 to 2.40). For patients with cognitive impairment, no significant association was found with assessed outcomes in a pooled analysis of 3 IVT studies and one EVT study found poorer 90-day mRS outcomes. Conclusions: This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests no considerable safety concerns for IVT or EVT use in patients with pre-existing dementia or cognitive impairment, compared to those without. Uncertainty remains in the efficacy of these therapies for these individuals. Rigorous, patient-caregiver informed design, and a more nuanced outcome approach are warranted for future studies. REGISTRATION: URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/; Unique identifier: CRD42021240499.

Abstract WP21: Intravenous Alteplase for Unknown Onset Stroke on Prior Antiplatelet Therapy: EOS Individual Participant Data

Introduction: Although prior antiplatelet therapy (APT) could potentially contribute to bleeding risk, the influence of prior APT on intravenous thrombolysis outcomes remains controversial. We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke in patients receiving prior APT Methods: Patients with an acute stroke of unknown onset were evaluated using an individual patient-level database of randomized controlled trials comparing t-PA with placebo or standard care from the Evaluation of Unknown Onset Stroke Thrombolysis (EOS) trials. A favorable outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale of 0 to 1 at 90-days. Safety outcomes included symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) at 22 to 36 hours and 90-day mortality. Results: Baseline data on prior APT were available for 780 of 843 patients. Of these, 257 (32.9%) patients were receiving prior APT. Patients with prior APT were older (72 vs. 66 years), and had a higher prevalence of vascular risk factors than those without APT. Overall, there was no interaction between prior APT and treatment effects of alteplase (p interaction=0.23). A favorable outcome was observed in 55 of 125 (45%) patients with prior APT in the alteplase group and in 39 of 132 (30%) patients with prior APT in the control group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.41 [95% CI, 1.14-5.13]). sICH occurred in 7 patients (5.6%) in the alteplase group but in 1 patient (0.8%) of the controls (aOR, 10.82 [0.63-185.3]). 90-day mortality was observed in 6 patients (6.5%) in the alteplase group compared with 6 patients (6.1%) in the controls (aOR, 1.47 [0.25-8.78]). In patients without prior APT (n=523), favorable outcome was observed in 136 patients (51.3%) in the alteplase group and in 112 patients (45.3%) in the control group (aOR, 1.38 [0.90-2.11]). Additionally, no significant differences were found in terms of safety outcomes between the two groups (sICH: 3 [1.2%] vs. 1 [0.4%]; mortality: 13 [4.9%] vs. 3 [1.1%]). Conclusion: Intravenous alteplase exhibited efficacy for acute stroke without increasing the risks of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage or mortality in patients with prior antiplatelet therapy.

Extended Window Thrombolytics for Ischemic Stroke: A Telestroke versus In-person Experience.

Telestroke evaluation of patients with acute ischemic stroke is supported by American Heart and Stroke Association Guidelines. However, there is no data on outcomes or safety of administering IV thrombolytic stroke therapy using extended window criteria (>4.5h since onset of symptoms with a hyperacute MRI diffusion T2/FLAIR mismatch) via telestroke. Here, we report adverse events and outcomes of extended-window thrombolysis by telestroke vs in-person care. We performed a retrospective cohort review from 2020 to 2022 of prospectively collected multinstitutional databases from a large, not-for-profit health system with both in-person stroke and telestroke care. The primary outcome was frequency of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Secondary outcomes were favorable functional outcome at hospital discharge (modified Rankin Scale, mRS, 0-3) and discharge disposition. A total of 33 patients were treated with extended-window thrombolysis (n = 20 in-person, n = 13 telestroke). The median NIH stroke scale was 6, and time since last known normal was similar (median [95% CI]: in-person 13h [11-15h] vs telestroke 12h [9-16h], P = .33). The sICH frequency was low and occurred in one patient (4.8% in-person vs 0% by telestroke). Favorable outcome at discharge was not different between in-person and telestroke care (median mRS [95% CI]: 2 [1-3] vs 1 [0-2], OR .0 [.0-1.8], P = .27), and discharge deposition was also similar. In patients eligible for extended window acute stroke treatment with thrombolytics, there was no difference in adverse events between telestroke and in-person care.

Catheter-directed thrombolysis versus thrombectomy for submassive and massive pulmonary embolism: A systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionControversy surrounds the optimal therapy for submassive and massive pulmonary embolism (PE). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the outcomes of catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) versus surgical and catheter-based thrombectomy in patients with submassive and massive PE. MethodsWe searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Google Scholar for studies comparing outcomes of CDT versus thrombectomy in submassive and massive PE. Studies were identified and data were extracted by two independent reviewers. A random effects model was used to calculate risk ratios (RRs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Outcomes included in-hospital mortality, procedural complications, hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmissions, and right ventricle/left ventricle (RV/LV) ratio improvement. ResultsEight observational studies with 1403 patients were included, of whom 50.0 % received CDT. Compared to thrombectomy, CDT was associated with significantly lower in-hospital mortality (RR 0.62; 95 % CI 0.43–0.89; p = 0.01) and similar rates of major bleeding (p = 0.61), blood transfusion (p = 0.41), stroke (p = 0.41), and atrial fibrillation (p = 0.71). The hospital and ICU LOS, 30-day readmissions, and degree of RV/LV ratio improvement were similar between the two strategies (all p > 0.1). In subgroup analyses, in-hospital mortality was similar between CDT and catheter-based thrombectomy (p = 0.48) but lower with CDT compared with surgical thrombectomy (p = 0.01). ConclusionsIn patients with submassive and massive PE, CDT was associated with similar in-hospital mortality compared to catheter-based thrombectomy, but lower in-hospital mortality compared to surgical thrombectomy. Procedural complications, LOS, 30-day readmissions, and RV/LV ratio improvement were similar between CDT and any thrombectomy. Randomized controlled trials are indicated to confirm our findings.

TCT-395 Pharmacomechanical Thrombolysis and Deep Venous Thrombosis Outcomes: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

TCT-395 Pharmacomechanical Thrombolysis and Deep Venous Thrombosis Outcomes: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Association of nutritional screening tools with 6-month outcomes in ischemic stroke patients: A retrospective study

ObjectiveNutritional screening tools based on laboratory examinations are relatively objective and available indicators. However, few studies have investigated whether malnutrition severity might be associated with adverse outcomes at the platform recovery period of 6 mo and differentiated in acute ischemic stroke patients with or without intravenous thrombolysis. Therefore, we assessed the association between malnutrition and 6-mo outcomes in both intravenous thrombolysis and non-intravenous thrombolysis patients. MethodsWe retrospectively recruited 138 acute ischemic stroke patients who received intravenous thrombolysis and 311 who did not. The Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index, prognostic nutritional index, and Controlling Nutritional Status were used to assess nutritional status. The concordance between the 3 malnutrition screening tools was investigated with the κ statistic. Subgroups analyses were conducted to assess the correlation between malnutrition and functional outcomes in intravenous thrombolysis and non-intravenous thrombolysis patients. ResultsA total of 17 (6.44%) patients were suffering from malnutrition, as indicated by the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index, prognostic nutritional index, and Controlling Nutritional Status jointly. Moderate–severe malnutrition evaluated by the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index was significantly associated with poor functional outcome (odds ratio = 4.074; P = 0.003). Patients in the good functional outcome group (modified Rankin scale scores = 0 to 2) had a higher proportion of intravenous thrombolysis treatment (32.79% versus 21.25%; P = 0.043). Furthermore, subgroup analyses found no significant interactions between malnourished levels and intravenous thrombolysis treatment (P interaction > 0.05). ConclusionThe Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index, over ≤24 h, compared with the prognostic nutritional index and Controlling Nutritional Status, provided timely signals to improve acute ischemic stroke patients’ nutritional status. Also, nutritional status might not lead todifferent 6-mo outcomes, whether or not patients received intravenous thrombolysis treatment.

Comparative outcomes of catheter-directed thrombolysis versus AngioJet pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis for treatment of acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of pharmacomechanical thrombolysis and thrombectomy (PCDT) plus catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) vs CDT alone for the treatment of acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and summarize the clinical experience, safety outcomes, and short- and long-term efficacy. MethodsWe performed a 4-year retrospective, case-control study. A total of 95 consecutive patients with acute symptomatic iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT) with a symptom duration of ≤7 days involving the iliac and/or common femoral veins underwent endovascular interventions. The patients were divided into two groups according to their clinical indications: PCDT plus CDT vs CDT alone. Statistical analyses were used to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes between the two groups. Additionally, the patients were followed up for 3 to 36 months after treatment, and the proportions of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and moderate to severe PTS were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier survival method. ResultsA total of 95 consecutive patients were analyzed in this retrospective study, of whom, 51 underwent CDT alone and 44 underwent PCDT plus CDT. Between the two groups, in terms of immediate-term efficacy and safety, significant differences were found in the catheter retention time (60.64 ± 12.04 hours vs 19.42 ± 4.04 hours; P < .001), dosages of urokinase required (5.82 ± 0.81 million units vs 1.80 ± 0.64 million units; P < .001), the detumescence rate at 24 hours postoperatively (48.46% ± 8.62% vs 76.79% ± 7.98%; P = .026), the descent velocity of D-dimer per day (2266.28 ± 1358.26 μg/L/D vs 3842.34 ± 2048.02 μg/L/D; P = .018), total hospitalization stay (6.2 ± 1.40 days vs 3.8 ± 0.70 days; P = .024), number of postoperative angiograms (2.4 ± 0.80 vs 1.2 ± 0.30; P = .042), and grade III venous patency (>95% lysis: 54.5% vs 68.6%; P = .047). Furthermore, during the follow-up period, significant differences were found in the incidence of PTS (Villalta scale ≥5 or a venous ulcer: 47.0% vs 27.7%; P = .037), and the incidence proportion of moderate to severe PTS at 12 months (15.7% vs 4.5%; P = .024) and 24 months (35.3% vs 11.4%; P = .016). ConclusionsCompared with CDT alone, in the iliofemoral DVT subgroup with a symptom duration of ≤7 days, PCDT plus CDT could significantly relieve early leg symptoms, shorten the hospitalization stay, reduce bleeding complications, promote long-term venous patency, and decrease the occurrence of PTS and the incidence proportion of moderate to severe PTS. Thus, the short- and long-term outcomes both support the superiority of PCDT plus CDT vs CDT in this subgroup.